Nature Trails

Beaversbend Nature TrailBroken Bow, Oklahoma

Broken Bow Lake is located in one of the
most picturesque settings in Oklahoma. The lake stretches 22 miles
back into the Ouachita Mountain country where the unusual beauty of scenic
appeal beckons all nature enthusiasts. The mountain terrain is
densely forested with pine and hardwoods with an undercover of holly
groves, maple, dogwood, redbud, beauty bush, and a succession of flowering
perennials of the forest. Also, there are many species of birds
native to the project area for birdwatchers to enjoy.

For hikers there are two nature trails available for their enjoyment;
Big Oak Nature Trail and Beaver Lodge Nature Trail.

The Big Oak Nature Trail is about a quarter of a
mile long and is suitable for use by senior citizens and small children
and will be enjoyed by all nature lovers. It starts near Youth Camp
No. 2 in the River Bend Area.

It features the largest white oak tree in Oklahoma.
Approximately 300 years old, the tree is over 21 feet in circumference and 107
feet high. It is enclosed by a log fence and log benches have been placed
close by in order the the trail walkers may rest and contemplate. The
trail crosses a small creek spanned by a redwood bridge.

The
rugged and beautiful Beaver Lodge Nature Trail is a two-way trail located
near the River Bend Area and is approximately one mile long. It may be
entered either from the road below the spillway, or from a gravel road below the
dam. The trail winds along a clear stream through a valley surrounded by
pine-covered hills. In addition to the shortleaf and loblolly pine, the
hills are covered with deciduous trees such as red oak, hickory, sweetgum, ash,
elm, and red maple. The stream is a haven for beaver and muskrat.
Scenic attractions on the trail include a beaver lodge, for which the trail is
named and a log beaver dam. From time to time, the patient and quiet hiker
may see deer; squirrels, rabbits, a variety of birds, and other wildlife.
Wildflowers, ferns and mosses are abundant along the stream, especially in the
springtime. A log bridge crosses the creek.

The
two trails have been marked to help guide individual visitors.
Arrangements for guided tours may be made at the Project Office located near the
dam or by calling the project Manager; 580-494-6374. Advance notice is
required for guided tours for large groups. Vehicles are not allowed on
the trails.